Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Town of Pelham Public Library. The Pelham Examiner publishes press releases in the form received as a service to the community.
PELHAM, NEW YORK (SEPTEMBER 30, 2024) — The Town of Pelham Public Library is excited to announce that it has received a $1,200 grant from Latino Poetry, a project initiated by the Library of America, to host an inspiring program celebrating the newly released Latino Poetry Anthology.
This initiative is part of Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home, a nationwide public humanities project directed by the Library of America and supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities and Emerson Collective.
Pelham author Maria Rosell and dancers from the Tumbaga Colombian Dance Company of New York will kick off a celebration of Latin American culture with an afternoon of traditional dance, vibrant costumes, and hands-on instruction on Saturday, October 5, from 1-3 PM. This engaging event will set the stage for an exciting program that features Darrel Alejandro Holnes, the Afro-Panamanian American poet, performer, and educator, who is scheduled to visit the Library on Thursday, October 17, from 7-8 PM through the Latino Poetry grant.
Holnes’ poetry, which is prominently featured in the Latino Poetry Anthology, will be brought to life by talented actors from stage and screen. Following the performance, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a Q&A and group discussion led by poetry scholar Amy Lemmon, author of multiple acclaimed poetry collections, including Fine Motor, Saint Nobody, and The Miracles. Lemmon will guide a discussion on the significance of Latino poetry in our lives and communities. Registration is suggested for the evening event, but not required. All are welcome! To register, please visit pelhamlibrary.org or call (914) 738-1234.
“This program is part of Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home, a major public humanities initiative taking place across the nation in 2024 and 2025,” said Town of Pelham Public Library Director, Augusta Turner. “We are excited to be part of this vibrant celebration of culture and expression and encourage everyone to attend.”
In addition to the performance and discussion, participants will receive a writing prompt handout from Amy Lemmon, encouraging community-members to explore their own creativity—whether at the Library or in the comfort of their homes.
Don’t miss these opportunities to celebrate the richness of Latino dance and poetry and to connect with fellow community members. For any questions about either event, please contact the Town of Pelham Public Library’s Tasha Gross, Librarian. The Library is located at 530 Colonial Ave.
- Pelham’s got talent! And Pelham’s got events! Support the nonprofit community newspaper that showcases them all!